Martin Nievera and Pops Fernandez are two of the most iconic figures in Philippine entertainment. Their journey began decades ago as co-hosts of “Penthouse Live,” where their on-screen chemistry eventually evolved into a real-life romance. The couple married, had children – Robin and Ram — and became one of the country’s most beloved celebrity pairs.
However, after years of being in the public eye, their romantic relationship came to an end. Despite this, they have managed to maintain a strong bond, one that has endured through personal and professional changes over time.
Today, Martin and Pops are not only co-parents to their two sons, but also grandparents to Finn, thanks to Robin. Their enduring connection has led to their reunion on stage for the upcoming concert “Always and Forever,” scheduled for February 7, 2025, at the Mall of Asia Arena. Despite their past, they have remained close friends and collaborators. Their ability to keep their chemistry intact, even after their romantic relationship ended, is a testament to the strength of their friendship.
“We’re really the best partners,” they shared during a recent press conference at Botejyu in Ayala Mall Vertis North. “We enjoy working together,” they added, reflecting their ongoing professional partnership.
In the years since their separation, both Martin and Pops have emphasized the importance of friendship in their relationship. Martin reflected on the lasting nature of their bond, saying, “For the rest of our lives, we still have to somehow be part of each other’s lives… the same was the friendship, right? That doesn’t disappear.”
Pops echoed Martin’s sentiments, underscoring that maintaining a friendship is essential for any lasting relationship. “
You have to be friends still for it to work again kahit wala na silang actual relationship,” she said.
This has allowed them to move forward with their personal lives while maintaining a mutual respect for each other.
Their shared history, including the years spent as a couple, remains a significant part of their connection. Martin emphasized that understanding the foundation of their relationship is key to its longevity. “You need to ask yourself first why you are in the relationship. If the foundation you have is friendship, some things can easily be fabricated. Sometimes we fabricate to make money or create a ‘teleserye’… whatever the reason you’re put together, honor that reason but never forget the respect you have for each other.”
Despite the complexities of their past, Martin and Pops have remained grounded in the idea that respect and friendship are the foundation of their relationship. Martin explained, “Whatever it is, if there’s any magic that happens within that time, it’s up to you. And if you break up, if something happens along the way, never forget that strength that started this whole deal.”
For Martin, the decision to stay involved in Pops’ life, despite their separation, comes from a deeper understanding of their shared purpose. “People ask me why I’m still involved in her life even if we’re not together anymore. Because God put us together for a reason. And we have two kids,” he said. “What is that reason? We are not married anymore? No, no, no! I think for the rest of our lives, we still have to be part of each other’s lives — however she’s willing to have me. But the concern, the love, the friendship, the team-up, that doesn’t disappear… So there’s a reason.”
Pops also emphasized the importance of maintaining boundaries while staying involved in each other’s lives for the sake of their children. “I think we remain friends because we know where Martin and I stand. I try not to get involved. Meron siyang sariling life, meron din akong sariling life. But when it comes to our children…[we’re there] kung kailangan,” she shared.
As they prepare for “Always and Forever,” their upcoming concert, Martin and Pops are not just reuniting for a performance — they are celebrating the journey that has brought them to this point.
For ex-flames and ex-partners, Martin has a reminder: “Remember the courtship? Remember the magic? Don’t forget that!”
Relive the magic as Martin and Pops take the stage for “Always and Forever,” from VAA Live, StarMedia, DSL, on February 7, 2025, at the Mall of Asia Arena.
